If It\'s Purple, Someone\'s Gonna Die by Patti Bellantoni

If It\'s Purple, Someone\'s Gonna Die is both a primer and a playful exploration of color theory in film. The book examines how directors and cinematographers use color to convey mood, theme, and narrative cues, often in ways audiences absorb subconsciously.
Through analyses of classic and modern films, it illustrates color
choices from costume to lighting to set design. shape audience perception and emotional response. It also delves into cultural associations, psychological effects, and the ways color can become a storytelling character in its own right.
Filled with case studies, anecdotes, and visual examples, the book makes complex ideas accessible while encouraging experimentation. For creators, it’s a guide to harnessing the subtle power of color, helping them craft films that resonate visually and emotionally.

Short Description: A witty, irreverent guide to color in cinema, this book explores how filmmakers use color to convey emotion, create symbolism, and guide audience perception. Through examples spanning decades of film history, it reveals the psychology and storytelling power of color. Perfect for film students, cinematographers, and directors, it shows how color is more than decoration it’s a vital part of cinematic language.